bourgeoisie
Noun: 1. The social class between the lower and upper classes: The bourgeoisie is the middle class in a society, typically characterized by ownership of capital, property, and a concern for material interests and conventional respectability. In Marxist theory, it specifically refers to the capitalist class who own most of society's wealth and means of production. 2. The dominant class in capitalist society: This meaning emphasizes the bourgeoisie's economic and social power, contrasting with the proletariat (the working class).
The term is used in sociological, economic, and political contexts to describe a specific social and economic class. - It often carries connotations related to materialism, conventional attitudes, and capitalist values. - In historical and Marxist discourse, it is a central concept for analyzing class struggle.
- Sociological context:
- The rise of the bourgeoisie in the 19th century transformed European societies.
- Her values were often criticized as being too bourgeois.
- Political/Economic context:
- Marx argued that the proletariat would eventually overthrow the bourgeoisie.
- Policies were designed to protect the interests of the bourgeoisie.
- "Petty bourgeoisie" (or "petite bourgeoisie"): Refers to the lower middle class, such as small business owners, shopkeepers, and minor officials, who possess some property or capital but not on a large scale.
- The petty bourgeoisie were often caught between the interests of the workers and the major capitalists.
- "National bourgeoisie": In some contexts, refers to the capitalist class within a particular nation, especially in discussions of colonialism and development.
- The national bourgeoisie played a key role in the country's push for independence.
- Bourgeois (adjective): Pertaining to the middle class, especially with reference to its perceived materialistic values or conventional attitudes.
- They led a comfortable, bourgeois life in the suburbs.
- Bourgeois (noun): A member of the bourgeoisie; a middle-class person.
- He was a typical bourgeois, concerned with security and status.
- Middle class: The social group between the upper and working classes.
- Capitalist class: Specifically denotes those who own capital and the means of production.
- Proletariat: The working class who sell their labor for wages.
- Aristocracy/Nobility: The traditional upper class, often based on hereditary rank.
- "Bourgeois values": Refers to the set of cultural norms and ethics associated with the middle class, such as emphasis on property, material success, and social conformity.
- The artist rejected the bourgeois values of his family.
- the social class between the lower and upper classes